ATMOS Space Cargo

ATMOS Space Cargo is a German startup, founded in 2021 by Sebastian Klaus, Marta Oliveira, Jeffrey Hendrikse, and Christian Grimm, that develops and manufactures reusable space capsules to return cargo from orbit. The company provides an end-to-end logistics service, enabling microgravity research and in-space manufacturing for clients in sectors like life sciences, materials science, and defense.

The founding team combines extensive experience from the space and defense sectors. CEO Sebastian Klaus holds a Master's in Aerospace Engineering with a focus on atmospheric re-entry and served as a military officer, bringing leadership and technical expertise in descent systems. COO Marta Oliveira has experience with NASA, ESA, and CNES, while CTO Jeffrey Hendrikse and Lead Systems Engineer Christian Grimm contribute decades of experience from roles at ESA, DLR, and Airbus on mission-critical projects.

The company's core product is the PHOENIX return capsule, which utilizes a proprietary Inflatable Atmospheric Decelerator (IAD). This technology acts as both a heat shield and a parachute, designed to offer a more cost-efficient and scalable solution compared to traditional systems. The initial PHOENIX 1 capsule, capable of carrying up to 100 kg, completed its first test mission aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 in April 2025. Future versions, like PHOENIX 2, are being developed to handle larger payloads of several tonnes.

ATMOS Space Cargo's business model focuses on providing regular and affordable return transport, addressing a growing market as access to space increases and the International Space Station nears decommissioning. The company has secured significant funding, including a €13.1 million award from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator in February 2025. It also holds a commercial contract with Space Cargo Unlimited for seven re-entry missions to be conducted between 2026 and 2027, demonstrating market traction for its services.

Keywords: space cargo logistics, atmospheric re-entry, reusable space capsules, microgravity research, in-orbit manufacturing, inflatable atmospheric decelerator, PHOENIX capsule, downmass services, space logistics, life sciences in space, European space industry, payload return, newspace, orbital logistics, space-to-earth delivery, satellite return, space debris mitigation, return from orbit, sustainable space, commercial spaceflight